Talking to Children about Community Violence

April 17, 2007 — -- Once again, parents and teachers are faced with the challenge of discussing a tragic incident of community violence with children.

Although these may be difficult conversations, they are also important.

There are no "right" or "wrong" ways to talk with children about such traumatic events. However, here are some suggestions that may be helpful:

David Fassler, M.D., is a child and adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Burlington, Vt. He is also a clinical professor in the department of psychiatry at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.